The prayer centers on a sequence of 41 Divine Names. Unlike a simple recitation of names, the method involves invoking a specific Name, followed by sending peace and blessings upon the Prophet (Salawat), and then a specific plea.
Below is the list of the 41 Names used in the cycle. The recitation follows a rhythmic pattern where the seeker isolates the Name, acknowledges the Messenger of that Name, and asks for its specific benefit.
The 41 Names are:
(Note: The text continues with more names in the traditional Asma ul-Husna, but the specific "Erbain" cycle traditionally locks onto these first 41 as a foundational set for the prayer practice.)
The unique power of the Erbain comes from its structure. It is not merely reciting a list. The method is as follows: Erbaini Idrisiyye 41 Ismi serifi Ve Havasi
For each Name, the reciter says:
Example for the first Name:
This creates a bridge: The servant calls upon God using His Attribute, honors the Messenger who taught that Attribute, and then asks for their need. This is known as the Wasila (The Means).
In the book "Kanz al-Khafiyyah" (The Hidden Treasure), a story is told of a student in Istanbul who was drowning in debt. His Sheikh gave him the Erbaini Idrisiyye as a Wird (daily litany). After 20 days, a long-lost uncle returned from travel and paid all his debts. The Sheikh commented: "The 41 names lifted the veil of poverty between you and your provision." The prayer centers on a sequence of 41 Divine Names
Another account from Algeria states that a governor used the names to calm a massive riot without a single sword being drawn—simply by reciting the 12th name (Al-Jami’ – The Gatherer) from the sequence 41 times.
The Havasi refers to the esoteric effects of these names. When recited correctly—with ablution, facing the Qibla, and with a heart emptied of worldly distractions—the Erbaini Idrisiyye is said to unlock several states:
Unlike a random list, the Erbaini Idrisiyye is a rhythmic sequence. It includes the Names of Allah, Prophetic names, and specific sacred phrases. Below is the canonical list as recited in the Idrisiyya and Shadhili traditions.
(Note: Arabic transliterations may vary slightly, but the essence is preserved) (Note: The text continues with more names in
Final Seal: The litany is concluded with: "La ilaha illallah, Sayyidina Idris, Muhammadun Rasulullah" (There is no god but Allah, our master Idris, Muhammad is the messenger of Allah).
The primary benefit of the Erbain is safety. It is traditionally recited to create a protective shield (Hıfz) around the reciter. Historically, Ottoman soldiers would carry written copies of this prayer into battle for protection from harm. It is recited to remove difficulties, distress, and anxiety.
For advanced saliks, the 41 names are a key to Kashf (unveiling). Regular recitation while meditating on the meaning of each name is said to open the "third eye" of the heart. The reciter begins to see the Malakut (spiritual realm) and receive inspirations (Ilham) in dreams or waking states.
Reciting the Name el-Fettah within the cycle is believed to open doors that seem locked—whether in business, marriage, or legal matters. It is said to break through stagnation.